Need to Innovate: Data and AI as Drivers of Change
In a world where technological progress and societal challenges such as climate change and geopolitical shifts are redefining the playing field, innovation is an absolute necessity. Data and artificial intelligence (AI) act as catalysts for groundbreaking solutions and sustainable growth. However, many organizations do not optimally utilize their data, often due to a lack of a strategic and data-centric approach. By intelligently organizing processes around data, organizations increase their innovation power, accelerate their ability to respond to market changes, and strengthen their competitive position.
Leadership in a data-driven world requires a vision that puts innovation at the center. The C-Level Leadership Program Innovation and Transformation with Data and AI, developed by Erasmus University Rotterdam and its flagship center for Data Analytics (ECDA) and thought leaders from practice, offers leaders a unique opportunity to translate technological progress and data-driven insights into economic growth and societal impact. The program combines scientific expertise and practice-oriented insights to help leaders find new paths to transformation and innovation.
Key Information
- Program
- Target Audience
- Lecturers and Speakers
- Information and Registration
- Program Management
- Certificate and alumni
Program Overview
The program brings together top executives in a unique setting where strategy, leadership, and data converge. The program not only facilitates knowledge transfer but also collaboration in a network of ambitious leaders and enables leaders to gain in-depth insight into the power of data-driven digital innovation and transformation. In seven modules of 1.5 days each, participants are guided in the strategic transition from application-driven to data-driven disruptive digital transformation.
Each module covers a specific theme and is led by an expert with in-depth knowledge of the field. Guest speakers with extensive practical experience share their insights and best practices. Participants bring in practical cases from their own organization, which are developed during the program. In this way, the knowledge gained is made directly applicable to concrete issues within the organization.
At the end of the program, participants present how they can integrate the principles of data-driven, disruptive digital transformation 4.0 into their business operations. The program concludes with this presentation, including dinner and a top speaker.
Module 1 - Digital Strategy
-
Introduction
-
Geopolitical context
-
Data as the new gold
-
Data-driven strategy
-
The CEO agenda
-
Building a data ecosystem
-
Dealing with data dilemmas
Module 2 - Digital Economy
-
Financial re-engineering from a data perspective
-
Data-centric working - an impact on the Business & Operating model
-
Data-centric working and data skills
-
Business model 4:0: digital and circular transformation of AI for circular business
Module 3 - Digital Transformation
-
Digital Transformation
-
Transformation from application to data-centric IT architecture
-
Digital innovation machine and funnel
-
Data governance
-
Changing the culture and people
Module 4 - Transformational Leadership
-
Digital leadership and the SDG agenda (sustainability, inclusivity, etc.)
-
Data ethics and responsible handling of data
-
Culture change and dealing with resistance
Module 5 - Digital Compliance
-
Compliance – legal and ethical risks and dilemmas
-
Cyber security
-
New technology trends
Module 6 - Digital Innovation in the Future
-
Deepdive (Generative) AI
-
Quantum computing
-
Towards a New Experience with Extend Reality, Digital Humans/Avatars and the Metaverse
Module 7 - Program Completion with Pitches, Top Speaker at Dinner
Final pitches and feedback from experts
Conclusions and next steps
Top speaker
Community dinner
The program is developed for leaders at C-level – directors, commissioners, and supervisors – who want to harness the power of data to transform internal processes and propel their organization to new heights. The program is designed in collaboration with various experts and guest speakers and offers valuable insights for leaders who want to shape innovation and transformation.
Although the program is open to all leaders, we encourage women to participate. The playing field in many organizations is still often dominated by men, especially in leading positions such as CIOs, CTOs, and CDOs. This often results in a technical and one-sided perspective on innovation, where opportunities are missed to respond more broadly and creatively to the need for transformation. Female leaders have the unique potential to break through this mindset and introduce a more holistic and future-oriented approach. After all, diversity in leadership has been proven crucial for innovation and success.
Each module is enriched with masterclasses from professors, top managers, experts, entrepreneurs, commissioners, and thought leaders. International speakers and fireside guests will join during the program to discuss current themes and dilemmas in an informal setting.
Your investment in future-oriented leadership
The 'Innovation and Transformation with Data and AI' program equips you with essential tools and insights to spearhead data-driven transformations.
This executive-level initiative goes beyond mere knowledge transfer, fostering a collaborative platform where you engage with industry-leading experts and fellow C-suite leaders
This transformative experience not only enhances your personal growth but also transforms organizational change.
For an investment of €17,500 excluding VAT you embark on a journey to elevate your leadership capabilities and bolster your organization's competitive edge in the digital age.
The programme fee includes:
-
7 modules spread over 6 months
-
1.5 days per module (Thursday and Friday morning) including dinner
-
Study materials and access to exclusive knowledge sources
-
High-quality catering and dinners at top locations during the program
-
A carefully composed book package: 'Data Value Creation' and 'Technology and Tulips' Data Waarde Creatie en Technologie en Tulpen.
-
A program certificate as proof of your completed education
The language of instruction is Dutch/English, depending on the group composition and lecturer
Data
Module 1: Digital Strategy
8 May
14:00 – 20:30
Module 1: Digital Strategy
9 May
09:00 – 17:00
Module 2: Digital Economy
5 June
14:00 – 19:00
Module 2: Digital Economy
6 Juni
09:00 – 17:15
Module 3: Digital Transformation
3 July
14:00 – 19:00
Module 3: Digital Transformation
4 July
09:00 – 17:00
Module 4: Transformational Leadership
4 September
14:00 – 19:00
Module 4: Transformational Leadership
5 September
09:00 – 17:00
Module 5: Digital Compliance
2 October
14:00 – 19:00
Module 5: Digital Compliance
3 October
09:00 – 17:30
Module 6: Digital Innovation in the Future
6 November
14:00 – 19:00
Module 6: Digital Innovation in the Future
7 November
09:00 – 17:30
Module 7: Program Completion
11 December
15:00 – 20:30
Location
Burgemeester Oudlaan 50 in Rotterdam.
The campus is easily accessible by car or public transport.
Exit tickets for parking are offered
Group size
During the lectures, interaction and active input of practical cases are key. Therefore, we maintain a maximum group size of 25 participants to ensure an optimal learning experience.
Information
Marcel van Oosterhout
Biography
Marcel van Oosterhout is the Executive Director of the Erasmus Centre for Data Analytics (ECDA) at Erasmus University Rotterdam. He is passionate about the possibilities of digitalization, artificial intelligence (AI), and immersive technologies to contribute to societal challenges, such as the energy transition and the development of smart, sustainable cities.
Marcel obtained his PhD from the Rotterdam School of Management with a dissertation on 'Business Agility and Information Technology in Service Organizations'. With more than 25 years of experience in project management, applied research, and executive training, he excels at initiating projects and collaborations at the intersection of science and practice.
Under his leadership, ECDA has realized various innovative projects, such as the Smart Campus Project on Campus Woudestein. This project uses real-time data to make the campus more livable and sustainable through sensors that collect information about air pollution, indoor climate, and people flows.
In addition, Marcel has contributed to several EU-funded innovation projects such as RUGGEDIZED (smart city, led by the Municipality of Rotterdam) and MAGPIE (led by the Port of Rotterdam Authority). The RUGGEDIZED project developed the blueprint of the open urban platform of the municipality of Rotterdam. The MAGPIE project strives for breakthroughs in the use of green energy carriers in transport to, from, and within ports, using data and AI to optimize the energy system and the logistics network.
Marcel's expertise and leadership contribute to ECDA's mission to harness data analysis and AI in a sustainable and responsible manner to address complex societal issues.
Caroline Holtgrefe
Biography
Caroline Holtgrefe has built an impressive career at USG People, a leading listed HR service provider that was acquired in 2016 by the Japanese company Recruit, changing its name to RGF Staffing. During this period, she realized the SieFlex concept together with Siemens, a purchasing format for (temporary) personnel supported by a web-based purchasing tool. This award-winning project brought efficiency and transparency to the purchasing process of (temporary) personnel and was recognized as an important innovation in the sector.
With in-depth experience in both SME and corporate environments, Caroline is an inspirer and team player who helps organizations and individuals excel. With a proven track record in developing successful startups and new initiatives, Caroline knows how to identify opportunities that have the potential to change the market. Her entrepreneurial spirit and focus on innovation ensure that she helps organizations beyond their original goals. She believes in the power of co-creation and knows how to position organizations powerfully, relevantly, and distinctively. Her leadership is a combination of flexibility, results orientation, and a strong focus on leveraging technological innovation and social responsibility.
Under her leadership, the platform Topvrouwen.nl was founded in 2016, with the aim of promoting the flow of women to top positions within the Dutch business community. This initiative refuted the myth that there were insufficient qualified female leaders and contributed to the support for the law 'growth quota and targets'. Since 2021, the platform has operated under the name SER Topvrouwen, continuing to contribute to the visibility and impact of female leaders.
In 2022, Caroline was included by MT/Sprout in the Inclusive 30, a recognition of her influential leadership in the field of inclusion within the Dutch business community.
With her company Helloworld Impactbuilders, she is committed to redefining leadership, with a strong focus on connection, innovation, and inclusion. Her goal is to make organizations not only successful but also to increase their social impact.
Ken van Ierlant
Biography
Ken van Ierlant is an experienced DATA Strategy Director & Thought Leader with 45 years of practical experience in business transformations and turnaround programs with a strong digital component as Data Scientist and academic DATA entrepreneur.
He has worked for top companies such as PWC, EY, Air France/KLM, and Alexander Proudfoot Consulting, and was President & CEO of AND Data.
In 1999, on behalf of EY, he established the first CIO professorship at Erasmus University in Rotterdam. Ken was a guest lecturer at Nyenrode Business University until 2022 and is the initiator of the holistic C-level leadership program Innovation & Transformation with data & AI offered by Erasmus University Rotterdam.
Ken authored the book "Data Value Creation", awarded No. 1 Management Book of the Year in 2021. He regularly publishes articles on Data, GDPR, and digital transformation in international journals.
Ken has a PhD in Data Sciences from Ariel University, an MA/MSc from KU Leuven, and two MBAs from IMD and INSEAD. He has received awards and recognition for his work in the field of Data & GDPR regulation and digital intelligent buildings.
In de jaren 80 diende Ken gedurende vijf jaar als Inlichtingenofficier. Gedurende deze tijd begon hij zijn zoektocht naar data als bron voor tactische en strategische besluitvorming, wat bijdroeg aan zijn boek “Data Value Creation
The participants receive a certificate. In addition, various network dinners are offered for the alumni in which current topics are discussed.
Why this program
Many organizations approach innovation in a technocratic manner. However, data-centric working goes beyond technology; data is seen as a strategic asset. It is about process design, reorientation of objectives, and identifying which activities and data are essential for the organization. All innovative technologies and applications are data-driven, without exception. Only we are often not well-organized to use this data effectively. Data-centric working requires a radical change, away from old structures, systems, and processes towards new business operating models to stay ahead of societal changes.
It requires leadership with courage and perseverance. It is about leadership with a holistic view of the organization and thereby making connections between distinct parts of the organization, but also with other organizations to enable data-centric working in chains.
In collaboration with various experts and guest speakers, we have developed the holistic C-level program 'Innovation and Transformation with Data and AI'. This program enables leaders to realize changes in thinking and acting within organizations and thereby stimulate innovation.
Why this program
Many organizations approach innovation in a technocratic manner. However, data-centric working goes beyond technology; data is seen as a strategic asset. It is about process design, reorientation of objectives, and identifying which activities and data are essential for the organization. All innovative technologies and applications are data-driven, without exception. Only we are often not well-organized to use this data effectively. Data-centric working requires a radical change, away from old structures, systems, and processes towards new business operating models to stay ahead of societal changes.
It requires leadership with courage and perseverance. It is about leadership with a holistic view of the organization and thereby making connections between distinct parts of the organization, but also with other organizations to enable data-centric working in chains.
In collaboration with various experts and guest speakers, we have developed the holistic C-level program 'Innovation and Transformation with Data and AI'. This program enables leaders to realize changes in thinking and acting within organizations and thereby stimulate innovation.
What the program offers
Integral Strategic Insight
Combining data, technology, and leadership in a cohesive vision.
Acceleration in innovation power
Effectively deploying data to transform the organization towards a stronger competitive position and its value chain towards sustainable growth.
Directly applicable knowledge
Combining scientific interdisciplinary insights from the ECDA expert practices and practical experience to solve complex issues.
Leadership in connection
Creating new collaborations within and between organizations.
Exclusive network
Building relationships with like-minded leaders and experts within a dynamic alumni network and exclusive access to the ECDA community.
Certification and recognition
Underlining expertise with a certificate of participation.
Why Erasmus University Rotterdam
Erasmus University Rotterdam (EUR) has an excellent academic reputation and is highly regarded in the national and international rankings of the world's best universities. The university has an impressive No. 1 position in the Netherlands, No. 5 in Europe, and a No. 22 rating worldwide. As part of Convergence, there is close collaboration with Erasmus MC and TU Delft.
Erasmus Centre for Data Analytics (ECDA) is EUR's center of expertise for interdisciplinary insight into the societal and economic impact of data, artificial intelligence (AI), digitalization, and immersive technologies (XR). We believe that data, algorithms, and AI, used in an ethical, explainable, and human-centered way, act as vehicles for the necessary changes and transitions to address current and future societal challenges.
In our programs, we challenge our participants hands-on and share, in addition to academic insights, a lot of practical experience through (inter)national guest speakers from our partner network. We focus on authentic challenges and insightful use cases. Over the years, we have been able to launch various successful programs for professionals where the most recent academic and practical insights are bundled. In this, we work closely with experts from various EUR faculties, including from the beginning with the Rotterdam School of Management.
Why Erasmus University Rotterdam
Erasmus University Rotterdam (EUR) has an excellent academic reputation and is highly regarded in the national and international rankings of the world's best universities. The university has an impressive No. 1 position in the Netherlands, No. 5 in Europe, and a No. 22 rating worldwide. As part of Convergence, there is close collaboration with Erasmus MC and TU Delft.
Erasmus Centre for Data Analytics (ECDA) is EUR's center of expertise for interdisciplinary insight into the societal and economic impact of data, artificial intelligence (AI), digitalization, and immersive technologies (XR). We believe that data, algorithms, and AI, used in an ethical, explainable, and human-centered way, act as vehicles for the necessary changes and transitions to address current and future societal challenges.
In our programs, we challenge our participants hands-on and share, in addition to academic insights, a lot of practical experience through (inter)national guest speakers from our partner network. We focus on authentic challenges and insightful use cases. Over the years, we have been able to launch various successful programs for professionals where the most recent academic and practical insights are bundled. In this, we work closely with experts from various EUR faculties, including from the beginning with the Rotterdam School of Management.
Key Information
Program Overview
The program brings together top executives in a unique setting where strategy, leadership, and data converge. The program not only facilitates knowledge transfer but also collaboration in a network of ambitious leaders and enables leaders to gain in-depth insight into the power of data-driven digital innovation and transformation. In seven modules of 1.5 days each, participants are guided in the strategic transition from application-driven to data-driven disruptive digital transformation.
Each module covers a specific theme and is led by an expert with in-depth knowledge of the field. Guest speakers with extensive practical experience share their insights and best practices. Participants bring in practical cases from their own organization, which are developed during the program. In this way, the knowledge gained is made directly applicable to concrete issues within the organization.
At the end of the program, participants present how they can integrate the principles of data-driven, disruptive digital transformation 4.0 into their business operations. The program concludes with this presentation, including dinner and a top speaker.
Module 1 - Digital Strategy
-
Introduction
-
Geopolitical context
-
Data as the new gold
-
Data-driven strategy
-
The CEO agenda
-
Building a data ecosystem
-
Dealing with data dilemmas
Module 2 - Digital Economy
-
Financial re-engineering from a data perspective
-
Data-centric working - an impact on the Business & Operating model
-
Data-centric working and data skills
-
Business model 4:0: digital and circular transformation of AI for circular business
Module 3 - Digital Transformation
-
Digital Transformation
-
Transformation from application to data-centric IT architecture
-
Digital innovation machine and funnel
-
Data governance
-
Changing the culture and people
Module 4 - Transformational Leadership
-
Digital leadership and the SDG agenda (sustainability, inclusivity, etc.)
-
Data ethics and responsible handling of data
-
Culture change and dealing with resistance
Module 5 - Digital Compliance
-
Compliance – legal and ethical risks and dilemmas
-
Cyber security
-
New technology trends
Module 6 - Digital Innovation in the Future
-
Deepdive (Generative) AI
-
Quantum computing
-
Towards a New Experience with Extend Reality, Digital Humans/Avatars and the Metaverse
Module 7 - Program Completion with Pitches, Top Speaker at Dinner
Final pitches and feedback from experts
Conclusions and next steps
Top speaker
Community dinner
The program is developed for leaders at C-level – directors, commissioners, and supervisors – who want to harness the power of data to transform internal processes and propel their organization to new heights. The program is designed in collaboration with various experts and guest speakers and offers valuable insights for leaders who want to shape innovation and transformation.
Although the program is open to all leaders, we encourage women to participate. The playing field in many organizations is still often dominated by men, especially in leading positions such as CIOs, CTOs, and CDOs. This often results in a technical and one-sided perspective on innovation, where opportunities are missed to respond more broadly and creatively to the need for transformation. Female leaders have the unique potential to break through this mindset and introduce a more holistic and future-oriented approach. After all, diversity in leadership has been proven crucial for innovation and success.
Each module is enriched with masterclasses from professors, top managers, experts, entrepreneurs, commissioners, and thought leaders. International speakers and fireside guests will join during the program to discuss current themes and dilemmas in an informal setting.
Your investment in future-oriented leadership
The 'Innovation and Transformation with Data and AI' program equips you with essential tools and insights to spearhead data-driven transformations.
This executive-level initiative goes beyond mere knowledge transfer, fostering a collaborative platform where you engage with industry-leading experts and fellow C-suite leaders
This transformative experience not only enhances your personal growth but also transforms organizational change.
For an investment of €17,500 you embark on a journey to elevate your leadership capabilities and bolster your organization's competitive edge in the digital age. € 17.500 exclusief btw zet u de eerste stap richting het versterken van uw leiderschap en de concurrentiekracht van uw organisatie.
The programme fee includes:
-
7 modules spread over 6 months
-
1.5 days per module (Thursday and Friday morning) including dinner
-
Study materials and access to exclusive knowledge sources
-
High-quality catering and dinners at top locations during the program
-
A carefully composed book package: 'Data Value Creation' and 'Technology and Tulips' Data Waarde Creatie en Technologie en Tulpen.
-
A program certificate as proof of your completed education
The language of instruction is Dutch/English, depending on the group composition and lecturer
Data
The program will start in September 2025 and will end in March 2026. Each month, one module is offered throughout one and a half days.
The specific dates will be communicated here soon.
Location
Burgemeester Oudlaan 50 in Rotterdam.
The campus is easily accessible by car or public transport.
Exit tickets for parking are offered
Group size
During the lectures, interaction and active input of practical cases are key. Therefore, we maintain a maximum group size of 25 participants to ensure an optimal learning experience.
Information
Marcel van Oosterhout
Biography
Marcel van Oosterhout is the Executive Director of the Erasmus Centre for Data Analytics (ECDA) at Erasmus University Rotterdam. He is passionate about the possibilities of digitalization, artificial intelligence (AI), and immersive technologies to contribute to societal challenges, such as the energy transition and the development of smart, sustainable cities.
Marcel obtained his PhD from the Rotterdam School of Management with a dissertation on 'Business Agility and Information Technology in Service Organizations'. With more than 25 years of experience in project management, applied research, and executive training, he excels at initiating projects and collaborations at the intersection of science and practice.
Under his leadership, ECDA has realized various innovative projects, such as the Smart Campus Project on Campus Woudestein. This project uses real-time data to make the campus more livable and sustainable through sensors that collect information about air pollution, indoor climate, and people flows.
In addition, Marcel has contributed to several EU-funded innovation projects such as RUGGEDIZED (smart city, led by the Municipality of Rotterdam) and MAGPIE (led by the Port of Rotterdam Authority). The RUGGEDIZED project developed the blueprint of the open urban platform of the municipality of Rotterdam. The MAGPIE project strives for breakthroughs in the use of green energy carriers in transport to, from, and within ports, using data and AI to optimize the energy system and the logistics network.
Marcel's expertise and leadership contribute to ECDA's mission to harness data analysis and AI in a sustainable and responsible manner to address complex societal issues.
Caroline Holtgrefe
Biography
Caroline Holtgrefe has built an impressive career at USG People, a leading listed HR service provider that was acquired in 2016 by the Japanese company Recruit, changing its name to RGF Staffing. During this period, she realized the SieFlex concept together with Siemens, a purchasing format for (temporary) personnel supported by a web-based purchasing tool. This award-winning project brought efficiency and transparency to the purchasing process of (temporary) personnel and was recognized as an important innovation in the sector.
With in-depth experience in both SME and corporate environments, Caroline is an inspirer and team player who helps organizations and individuals excel. With a proven track record in developing successful startups and new initiatives, Caroline knows how to identify opportunities that have the potential to change the market. Her entrepreneurial spirit and focus on innovation ensure that she helps organizations beyond their original goals. She believes in the power of co-creation and knows how to position organizations powerfully, relevantly, and distinctively. Her leadership is a combination of flexibility, results orientation, and a strong focus on leveraging technological innovation and social responsibility.
Under her leadership, the platform Topvrouwen.nl was founded in 2016, with the aim of promoting the flow of women to top positions within the Dutch business community. This initiative refuted the myth that there were insufficient qualified female leaders and contributed to the support for the law 'growth quota and targets'. Since 2021, the platform has operated under the name SER Topvrouwen, continuing to contribute to the visibility and impact of female leaders.
In 2022, Caroline was included by MT/Sprout in the Inclusive 30, a recognition of her influential leadership in the field of inclusion within the Dutch business community.
With her company Helloworld Impactbuilders, she is committed to redefining leadership, with a strong focus on connection, innovation, and inclusion. Her goal is to make organizations not only successful but also to increase their social impact.
Ken van Ierlant
Biography
Ken van Ierlant is an experienced DATA Strategy Director & Thought Leader with 45 years of practical experience in business transformations and turnaround programs with a strong digital component as Data Scientist and academic DATA entrepreneur.
He has worked for top companies such as PWC, EY, Air France/KLM, and Alexander Proudfoot Consulting, and was President & CEO of AND Data.
In 1999, on behalf of EY, he established the first CIO professorship at Erasmus University in Rotterdam. Ken was a guest lecturer at Nyenrode Business University until 2022 and is the initiator of the holistic C-level leadership program Innovation & Transformation with data & AI offered by Erasmus University Rotterdam.
Ken authored the book "Data Value Creation", awarded No. 1 Management Book of the Year in 2021. He regularly publishes articles on Data, GDPR, and digital transformation in international journals.
Ken has a PhD in Data Sciences from Ariel University, an MA/MSc from KU Leuven, and two MBAs from IMD and INSEAD. He has received awards and recognition for his work in the field of Data & GDPR regulation and digital intelligent buildings.
In the eighties Ken served as an Intelligence Officer for 5 years. During this time, he began his search for data as a source for tactical and strategic decision making, which contributed to his book "Data Value Creation".
The participants receive a certificate. In addition, various network dinners are offered for the alumni in which current topics are discussed.
Advisory Committee
Annelien Bredenoord
Chair of the Executive Board of Erasmus University Rotterdam
"Technological developments such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) make our organizations even more aware of the importance of good data use across the board. To ensure responsible use of these progressive technologies, a holistic, sustainable data strategy is necessary, in which technology and ethics go hand in hand from the start."
Marguerite Soeteman-Reijnen
Chair of the Advisory Board of the SER Top Vrouwen
Commissioner Siemens Netherlands
Former CEO of Aon
"To distinguish yourself in a world full of competition, it is important to realize which technology and data are nice to have and/or need to have. But also, which competencies matter now and/or tomorrow."
Petra Wormser
CEO Zorgverzekeraars Nederland
"‘Healthcare innovation is necessary to maintain access to healthcare in the future. The challenge posed by the labor market and the need to reduce administrative burdens make the use of digital and hybrid care essential. The use of healthcare data is crucial here so that every citizen can receive the right care at the right time and in the right place."
Founding Partners & Launching Participants
Funding Partners & Launching Participants
Information